Overactive bladder occurs when there is a problem with the bladder, resulting in a constant need to urinate. The food that we eat and the way we live directly impact our gut and bladder. If you are diagnosed with OAB, doctors will recommend a combination of medication, nerve stimulation, surgery, food regimen, and lifestyle changes as a treatment. Paying attention and making small incremental but permanent lifestyle changes can go a long way in improving OAB.

Here are some of the key nutrition and lifestyle changes that can improve OAB symptoms.

1. Avoid the following foods
Some foods and drinks irritate the bladder leading to spasms in the bladder muscles. These spasms increase the urgency to urinate, causing frequent visits to the bathroom. Such foods and drinks are called OAB trigger foods. Make a note of all that you eat and drink regularly, and you will soon be able to identify such triggers which cause an increase in the urge to urinate. Some of the common OAB trigger foods which one can stay away from are caffeine, alcohol, spice, citrus, carbonated drinks, dairy products, sugar and all artificial sweeteners, foods that contain synthetic colors and preservatives, tomatoes, and onions.

Though these foods may not cause the same level of symptoms, you will be able to identify foods that trigger OAB symptoms in you. Wean away from these items one by one and replace them with healthy OAB-friendly foods. While your bladder may not react to moderate amounts, indulging in it may cause symptoms. The list may limit your choices. You should slowly replace your menu with freshly cooked food as much as possible to see a constant improvement in your condition.

2. Avoid gluten if you have Celiac disease
If you have Celiac disease, gluten may add to OAB. Avoid all gluten-rich products made of rye, wheat and barley. Bakery products like bread, biscuits and other products that contain gluten, and you should avoid them.

3. Eat right
Trial and elimination is the best way to identify the perfect food regimen for OAB. However, you need to ensure that you get enough nutrition. Use herbs instead of spices to flavor your food. Some of the OAB-friendly food items that you can include in your meals are fruits like banana, grapes, apples, watermelons and berries; vegetables, like Kale, cucumber, carrots, asparagus, broccoli, lettuce, and celery; fiber, including lentils, beans, artichoke, barley, oats, and almonds; and protein, like fish, tofu, eggs, and chicken.

Vitamins and minerals are crucial to replenish that you may lose due to frequent urination. It is important to have fiber-rich items, as aging can increase constipation risk, which adds pressure on the bladder, leading to urination.

4. Stop smoking now
Smoking can cause a cough that increases the muscle spasms in the bladder. It can increase the urge to urinate. The hundreds of chemicals in a cigarette can irritate the bladder lining and increase the urge to urinate.

5. Exercises
Exercise can help men with prostate problems. Spend time learning and doing Kegel exercises that focus on strengthening pelvic floor muscles, which can help you control urination.